Excursions from Mandara Resort

Looking for things to do in Mirissa?

The south of Sri Lanka beyond Dondra is considered one of the best locations in the world for spotting Blue Whales, Sperm Whales and Spinner Dolphins. Whale watching excursions are organised by Mirissa Water Sports during the season from December to April when the seas are calm.

Excursions to nearby tourist attractions are also offered to guests by the resort. A few attractions in the vicinity have been compiled below. More information about sightseeing tours can be obtained from the resort.

WHALE WATCHING IN MIRISSA

Imagine being just feet away from the largest and most graceful mammals in the world. Mirissa is a hotspot for whale watching in Sri Lanka, with the best time for sightings being during the months of November to April. December, January and April are the peak months and the chances of spotting sperm whales and blue whales during these months is very high.

GALLE FORT

The Galle Fort, a landmark in Sri Lanka's Southern Coast is a must-see attraction owing to its distinguishing local character. It is considered a living museum showcasing the Dutch colonial rule and has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can witness the unique Dutch architecture well-preserved for generations, and can also pay a visit to the former Dutch warehouse building which now houses the National Maritime Museum.

FOREST RESERVES

Further, in relatively close proximity are the Udawalawe and Yala National Sanctuaries, approximately 130 to 140 km away, and the Sinharaja Forest Reserve, the oldest surviving rain forest in South Asia, which is approximately 80 km away.

YATAGALA TEMPLE

Also close-by is the Yatagala temple, which is built around a large rock. The Bo tree at the temple is 2300 years old and archaeologists believe that the great granite boulders that stand guard around the Bo tree are in fact a type of rocky garden. Nestled amidst untouched environs and rarely visited by many, the temple looks out over paddy fields and small hamlets.